Rach L.

I have been on a rag quilt kick lately...probably due to all the babies soon to be born. I'm new to making these, and I've been having an issue with some of the seams coming undone after I wash the quilt. They are easy to repair, but obviously a pain to do and it makes me worry about what will happen after the new owner washes it. Anyone have any ideas why this keeps happening, and what I can do to prevent it? Should I sew twice around the outer perimeter or use a zigzag next to my straight stitch? For the most current blanket, I increased the seam allowance, shortened the length of my straight stitch, and was very careful to snip small, but am afraid to give this a wash. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

gingerd

It could be that when you are snipping to make the fringe you are cutting threads. I had that issue with the first one I did. Now, I just don't snip as close. If I want longer fringe then I increase the block size and seam width. That gives me a long fringe without snipping the threads.

bearisgray

I sewed each and every seam twice - and was careful to not snip the seams.

Patchwork Pam

Smaller stitches maybe ?

cjsews

I always sew twice around the outside. One forth inch away

ckcowl

I always double stitch and make sure to not snip any seam, it happens on occasion, generally if I do happen to snip a seam I stop right then, go in to the machine and restitch that seam, I have had an occasional one appear coming out of the dryer. I go in & double stitch it again, then check them all & fix before gifting.

Onebyone

Another reason the Go rag quilt die is worth it. Nothing to snip!

Rach L.

Well, I checked all my seams and snips, all seemed good so I went ahead and washed it (I didn't see any responses on here yet so I took a chance). Thankfully, I didn't have any issues this go around. However, seeing as how so many of you double stitch, I'm definitely going to do that from now on. I think it helped by increasing from 1/2 inch seams to 3/4 inch, and reducing the stitch length. Now, I just wish flannel wouldn't shed and pill after washing. It sure does make a nice soft blanket (after some fuzz buzzing), but I question the longevity of the fabric.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I really appreciate it!

DOTTYMO

I would do double seams, 1/2 and just a smidgen less.the snip just short of the smaller seam. The if you accidentally snip first seam the 1/2 seam will hold.
go round with another sew line on the one you have finished and see if it holds up in a wash.

im sure the babies will enjoy them.

JeriMae

I just made a queen size rag quilt, using old jeans for the front and flannel for the back. I stitched all seams with triple stitch (bean stitch). Hopefully that will keep them secure.